Secretary of State and Democratic candidate for Governor Jocelyn Benson is raising concerns about Michigan's corporate subsidy policies and calling for regulations on data centers.
Benson spoke to WCMU after Governor Gretchen Whitmer's final State of the State of the State of the State address last night.
“It's a speech that meets the moment,” Benson said. “I, as a candidate to succeed her…I'm going to continue, among other things, prioritizing health care affordability and access in the months ahead.”
Conservatives and some Democrats have expressed doubt that tax incentives will result in new business ventures coming to Michigan.
The failed $2.4 billion EV battery plant in Mecosta County is held up as an example of failed efforts to boost the economy with projects bolstered by tax incentives.
Benson says the state needs to focus on investing in people by increasing access to jobs. “Not just in our traditional sectors but in healthcare, in farming, in tourism, in a number of other growing industries, biotech, climate tech” she said giving examples.
“Workforce development and talent retention is going to be key to attracting the best employers to our state, far more than any incentives have been... shown to be."
On data centers, she says the state government's role should be to create a transparent process.
“Work to ensure they are not allowed to use our water or drive-up energy costs, and they're instead required to enter into agreements with communities that will drive down energy costs and invest in renewable energy,” she said.
Benson's husband Ryan Friedrich is a vice president of Related Companies, the corporation pushing for an AI data center in southeast Michigan's Saline Township.
He has committed to recusing himself from any Michigan-based projects if Benson wins the gubernatorial race.
Benson is one of four Democrats running to replace Whitmer, who is term limited. Early polling shows Benson is the front runner in the primary.
“I'm going to work to earn the votes of Republican, independent, and Democratic voters,” she said. “We're going to make government show up when you need it and then get out of the way when you don't.”
